In 2026, gamers everywhere are in for a golden age of role-playing games. Whether you’re a diehard fan of epic fantasy sagas, high-tech cyberpunk adventures, or imaginative indie gems, this year’s lineup is packed with reasons to get hyped—and upgrade your hardware. The Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and PC platforms are set to host some of the most ambitious, visually stunning, and emotionally resonant RPGs ever crafted.

Studios are pulling out all the stops, leveraging cutting-edge technology for breathtaking graphics, deeper storytelling, and gameplay systems that promise hundreds of hours of enthralling content. From long-awaited sequels to bold new IPs, every corner of the genre is represented. Whether you crave turn-based tactics, sprawling open worlds, or rich character customization, these 17 games are poised to dominate wishlists and watercooler conversations alike.

Charge your controllers and clear your schedules—here are the 17 most anticipated RPGs coming to Switch 2, PS5, and PC in 2026.

Story

The legendary story of Cloud Strife and his companions continues in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, picking up after the events of Remake. Players are thrown into a world teetering on the edge of catastrophe, as the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE pursues the sinister Shinra Corporation and Sephiroth, the series’ enigmatic antagonist, begins to reveal his ultimate plans. With the fate of the planet at stake, Rebirth promises sprawling new locations, deeper character arcs, and mind-bending narrative twists.

Gameplay

Rebirth builds on the innovative hybrid combat system introduced in Remake, blending real-time action with strategic, menu-based commands. The game expands the world far beyond Midgar, offering semi-open world exploration, dynamic side quests, and environmental puzzles. Players can expect new party members, advanced Materia systems, and a wealth of mini-games, all while managing relationships and uncovering secrets across vast, interconnected regions.

Why it’s on this list

There’s no RPG more hotly anticipated than the next chapter in the FFVII saga. Square Enix’s meticulous attention to detail and reverence for the source material mean fans and newcomers alike are guaranteed a blockbuster experience. The promise of seeing iconic moments fully realized with modern technology is simply irresistible for genre devotees.

Graphics and Sound

Rebirth dazzles with photorealistic environments, expressive character models, and cinematic cutscenes powered by the latest Unreal Engine. Nobuo Uematsu’s legendary score returns, remixed and expanded, ensuring every battle and emotional moment hits even harder. The audio design brings Midgar and beyond to life with atmospheric soundscapes and top-tier voice acting.

Legacy and Reception

The original Final Fantasy VII is widely regarded as one of the greatest games ever made, and Remake set a new bar for reimagining classics. Every new glimpse of Rebirth has only fueled the hype, with fans dissecting trailers and developer interviews for clues. Expectations are sky-high, and if Square Enix delivers, Rebirth could become a defining RPG of the decade.

Story

Bioware’s beloved fantasy series returns with Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, thrusting players into the heart of Thedas as ancient evils and political intrigue collide. The enigmatic Solas, now revealed as the Dread Wolf, sets the stage for a continent-spanning conflict that challenges everything players thought they knew about the Dragon Age universe. New and returning characters join forces to navigate shifting alliances, forbidden magic, and the fate of entire nations.

Gameplay

Dreadwolf promises a refined blend of tactical party combat and deep narrative choices. Players will recruit and customize a diverse cast, engage in real-time battles with pause-and-plan mechanics, and shape the story through impactful decisions. Exploration has been overhauled, with lush open regions, hidden secrets, and branching questlines that encourage replayability.

Why it’s on this list

Every RPG fan has been waiting for Bioware’s return to form. Dreadwolf is positioned as a redemption arc for the studio, promising to recapture the magic of Origins while innovating for a new generation. The sheer scale of world-building, coupled with meaningful choices, makes this one of the most ambitious RPGs on the 2026 horizon.

Graphics and Sound

Harnessing next-gen hardware, Dreadwolf features stunning landscapes, intricate armor and spell effects, and cinematic storytelling. The orchestral score and expertly crafted sound design immerse players in the world of Thedas, while top-tier voice acting brings every character to life.

Legacy and Reception

The Dragon Age series has a passionate fanbase, and anticipation for Dreadwolf has been building for years. With Bioware’s pedigree and the promise of a fresh start, expectations are intense. If Dreadwolf delivers, it could restore Bioware’s reputation as an RPG powerhouse.

Story

Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed invites players to the mystical world of Eora, the same universe as Pillars of Eternity. In this first-person RPG, you play as an envoy sent to investigate a deadly plague and unravel the secrets of a land filled with ancient magic, warring factions, and hidden gods. The fate of the Living Lands—and perhaps Eora itself—rests in your hands as you navigate a complex web of intrigue and conflict.

Gameplay

Avowed blends deep role-playing mechanics with visceral, action-oriented combat. Players wield a variety of magic, melee, and ranged weapons, customizing their playstyle through a robust skill system. Choices matter, with branching dialogue, faction alliances, and moral dilemmas that shape the story’s outcome. Exploration is richly rewarding, with secrets, environmental puzzles, and lore scattered throughout the world.

Why it’s on this list

Obsidian’s reputation for rich storytelling and player agency makes Avowed a must-play for RPG aficionados. The promise of a next-gen Elder Scrolls-style experience—infused with Obsidian’s signature narrative complexity—has fans counting down the days to launch.

Graphics and Sound

Avowed capitalizes on next-gen hardware to deliver lush forests, eerie ruins, and vibrant magical effects. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a sweeping orchestral score and immersive environmental audio that deepen the sense of adventure.

Legacy and Reception

Obsidian’s track record with classics like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds has set high expectations. Avowed’s early trailers and previews have drawn comparisons to the best in the genre, and anticipation continues to build as its release nears.

Story

Shadow of the Erdtree expands the acclaimed Elden Ring universe with a new, mysterious narrative. Players journey into previously unseen lands on the fringes of the Lands Between, following new threads related to Miquella and other enigmatic figures. The expansion promises revelations about the Erdtree, the demigods, and the world’s shattered history.

Gameplay

FromSoftware’s signature blend of challenging combat, exploration, and environmental storytelling returns with new enemies, bosses, and weapons. The expansion introduces fresh mechanics and areas that test even the most seasoned Tarnished. Expect intricate dungeons, secrets galore, and brutal encounters that demand mastery.

Why it’s on this list

Elden Ring was a phenomenon, and Shadow of the Erdtree is set to reignite the fervor. For fans of punishing action RPGs and deep lore, this expansion is unmissable. It promises to add substantial content and new mysteries to unravel, ensuring Elden Ring’s legacy endures.

Graphics and Sound

Shadow of the Erdtree enhances Elden Ring’s haunting art direction with new environments, enemy designs, and visual effects. The orchestral score, ambient sounds, and chilling enemy audio continue to set the mood, drawing players deeper into its dark fantasy world.

Legacy and Reception

Elden Ring is already hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time. The announcement of Shadow of the Erdtree sent shockwaves through the gaming community, and every new detail is met with feverish excitement. It’s poised to become the gold standard for what expansions can achieve.

Story

The next mainline entry in Atlus’s beloved Persona series is shrouded in secrecy, but if past games are any indication, fans can expect a heady blend of supernatural mystery, teenage drama, and social commentary. Set in a new city with a fresh cast of characters, Persona 6 promises to explore new psychological and societal themes while maintaining the series’ signature blend of the mundane and the magical.

Gameplay

Persona 6 is set to refine the series’ iconic turn-based battle system, merging traditional RPG mechanics with new twists. Players will balance daily life—attending school, building relationships, and managing time—with dungeon crawling and monster-slaying in surreal alternate realities. Expect deeper social links, expanded customization, and a host of quality-of-life improvements.

Why it’s on this list

Each Persona release is a cultural event, and the anticipation for Persona 6 is off the charts. The series has a reputation for innovation, unforgettable characters, and a style all its own. Persona 6’s arrival on next-gen platforms guarantees it will be one of the most talked-about RPGs of the year.

Graphics and Sound

Persona 6 pushes the series’ iconic visual flair to new heights, with stylish menus, vibrant character designs, and slick animations. Shoji Meguro’s music is expected to return, blending funky jazz, rock, and pop to create one of gaming’s most recognizable soundtracks.

Legacy and Reception

Persona 5 was a critical and commercial smash, and its influence can be seen across the genre. The pressure is on for Atlus to deliver a worthy successor, and early teasers have only fueled the hype. Persona 6 is poised to set a new benchmark for modern JRPGs.

Story

CD Projekt Red returns to the world of The Witcher with Polaris, launching a new saga set after the events of Wild Hunt. While Geralt’s fate remains uncertain, players will explore uncharted regions, encounter new monsters, and become embroiled in political machinations and ancient prophecies. The story promises to expand the lore of the Continent, introducing fresh faces and new threats.

Gameplay

Polaris evolves The Witcher’s open-world formula, offering even more dynamic quests, branching storylines, and monster-hunting mechanics. Players can expect updated combat, deeper RPG systems, and a living world teeming with secrets, contracts, and moral dilemmas. The sense of choice and consequence is more pronounced than ever.

Why it’s on this list

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt set a new standard for open-world RPGs, and the announcement of Polaris has sent anticipation into overdrive. Fans are eager to return to the Continent and see how CD Projekt Red pushes the genre forward.

Graphics and Sound

Leveraging the latest in graphics technology, Polaris features stunning landscapes, detailed character models, and atmospheric weather effects. The soundtrack and voice acting build on the series’ rich tradition, immersing players in a world both beautiful and brutal.

Legacy and Reception

The Witcher series is a juggernaut, with Wild Hunt still regarded as one of the greatest games ever made. Polaris is expected to continue that legacy, and every new detail is met with feverish excitement from fans and critics alike.

Story

Playground Games is rebooting the iconic Fable franchise, bringing players back to the whimsical yet dangerous land of Albion. The new Fable promises a fresh story, blending British humor, moral choices, and fairy-tale magic. Players will shape their hero’s destiny, navigating the consequences of their actions in a world filled with charming characters and fantastical creatures.

Gameplay

The Fable reboot combines open-world exploration with deep role-playing systems. Players can choose to be virtuous or villainous, impacting the world and its inhabitants. Combat is fluid and customizable, with magic, melee, and ranged options. Expect a blend of main quests, side stories, and plenty of opportunities for mischief and heroics.

Why it’s on this list

Fable’s return is a major event for RPG fans. The original series was beloved for its charm and player agency, and the new game aims to recapture that magic while leveraging modern technology. Hype is high, and all eyes are on Playground Games to deliver a worthy reboot.

Graphics and Sound

Fable dazzles with lush environments, expressive character animations, and a vibrant fantasy aesthetic. The soundtrack and voice acting are infused with wit and warmth, bringing Albion to life in ways never before possible.

Legacy and Reception

The Fable series has a storied history, and its blend of humor and heart has left a lasting impression. The reboot has been met with excitement and cautious optimism, as fans hope for a modern classic that honors the original’s legacy.

Story

Metaphor: ReFantazio is the latest RPG from Atlus’s legendary Persona and Shin Megami Tensei team. Set in a brand-new fantasy universe, players are thrust into a world on the brink of chaos, where ancient magic, political intrigue, and mysterious forces collide. The story is steeped in allegory, with a focus on personal growth, societal transformation, and the battle between hope and despair.

Gameplay

ReFantazio blends turn-based combat with real-time exploration, drawing on the best elements of Atlus’s previous titles. Players recruit companions, unlock powerful abilities, and navigate a branching narrative filled with tough decisions. The game features a unique “Archetype” system, encouraging experimentation and strategic depth.

Why it’s on this list

Atlus has a reputation for delivering genre-defining RPGs, and a new IP from the Persona team is cause for celebration. Metaphor: ReFantazio’s ambitious storytelling, innovative mechanics, and stunning presentation make it one of the year’s most intriguing releases.

Graphics and Sound

ReFantazio showcases Atlus’s signature style, with vibrant character art, imaginative environments, and spectacular spell effects. The soundtrack fuses orchestral and modern elements, creating a unique audio identity that stands out from the crowd.

Legacy and Reception

While Metaphor: ReFantazio is a new franchise, its pedigree ensures sky-high expectations. Early previews and trailers have impressed critics and fans, positioning it as a potential breakout hit of 2026.

Story

The crossovers and convoluted storytelling of the Kingdom Hearts series return in Kingdom Hearts IV. Sora, Donald, and Goofy embark on a new journey that bridges the worlds of Disney, Square Enix, and original creations. The narrative promises to unravel more mysteries of the “Lost Master Arc,” with new allies, enemies, and heart-wrenching choices.

Gameplay

Kingdom Hearts IV refines the series’ real-time action combat, introducing new Keyblades, expanded traversal mechanics, and larger, more interactive worlds. Players can expect a mix of platforming, puzzle-solving, and epic boss battles, along with deeper RPG progression and customization systems.

Why it’s on this list

Kingdom Hearts is a cultural phenomenon, blending beloved characters and franchises in unexpected ways. The anticipation for the next chapter is massive, with fans eager to see where Sora’s adventure goes next and which new universes will be explored.

Graphics and Sound

KHIV leverages next-gen hardware for realistic environments, fluid animations, and jaw-dropping visual effects. The soundtrack, composed by Yoko Shimomura, combines sweeping orchestration with familiar Disney melodies, enhancing every emotional beat.

Legacy and Reception

Kingdom Hearts has a dedicated fanbase and a legacy of memorable moments. The announcement of KHIV set social media ablaze, and every new reveal is dissected for clues. It’s poised to be one of the year’s biggest releases.

Story

The legendary tale of Jedi, Sith, and galactic intrigue is reborn in the Knights of the Old Republic Remake. Set thousands of years before the Skywalker saga, players navigate a galaxy at war, making choices that influence the fate of the Republic and the Sith Empire. The narrative is renowned for its twists, memorable characters, and moral ambiguity.

Gameplay

The KOTOR Remake updates the classic with modern action-RPG combat, cinematic storytelling, and expanded choice-driven mechanics. Players build their Jedi or Sith character, recruit companions, and explore iconic planets in greater detail than ever before. The remake promises to balance nostalgia with innovation, appealing to both veterans and newcomers.

Why it’s on this list

KOTOR is widely hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, and the remake is among the most anticipated projects in gaming. Bringing this masterpiece to modern hardware is a dream come true for countless fans.

Graphics and Sound

The remake boasts photorealistic visuals, detailed character models, and richly designed alien worlds. The iconic Star Wars score and sound effects are seamlessly integrated, delivering a cinematic experience worthy of the franchise.

Legacy and Reception

The original KOTOR set the standard for narrative-driven RPGs. The remake’s announcement was met with jubilation, and expectations are sky-high. If it delivers, it could reintroduce a classic to a whole new generation.

Story

Set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, Baldur’s Gate 3 plunges players into a sprawling narrative of mind flayers, ancient magic, and personal transformation. The story follows a group of unlikely heroes infected by a deadly parasite, forcing them to seek a cure while navigating political intrigue and moral dilemmas.

Gameplay

BG3 leverages turn-based combat based on D&D 5th Edition rules, offering tactical depth, environmental interactions, and a wealth of character customization. Players make meaningful choices in branching storylines, with every decision rippling across the world. Multiplayer and co-op options add even more replayability.

Why it’s on this list

Larian Studios has revitalized a legendary franchise, delivering a modern RPG that’s as deep as it is accessible. BG3’s critical acclaim and fan devotion make it a must-play on any platform, and its continued updates keep content fresh.

Graphics and Sound

BG3 features detailed environments, expressive characters, and cinematic cutscenes. The dynamic soundtrack and professional voice acting immerse players in Faerûn, capturing the magic of classic tabletop campaigns.

Legacy and Reception

Baldur’s Gate 3 has been showered with awards and praise, cementing Larian’s reputation as an RPG titan. Its arrival on more platforms ensures its legacy endures, and it remains a benchmark for narrative and gameplay excellence.

Story

Inspired by the Chinese classic Journey to the West, Black Myth: Wukong follows the legendary Monkey King as he battles gods, demons, and mythical beasts. The story is steeped in Eastern mythology, promising a blend of epic adventure, moral complexity, and stunning world-building.

Gameplay

Wukong offers intense, soulslike action-RPG combat, with players mastering a variety of weapons, spells, and transformations. The game’s challenging enemies, intricate level design, and fluid movement encourage experimentation and skillful play. Exploration reveals hidden secrets, powerful upgrades, and breathtaking vistas.

Why it’s on this list

Black Myth: Wukong has captured the industry’s attention with jaw-dropping trailers and ambitious scope. Its blend of mythology, action, and next-gen visuals makes it a standout in a crowded field.

Graphics and Sound

Wukong’s visuals are among the most impressive in gaming, with hyper-detailed character models, dynamic weather, and lush environments. The soundtrack fuses traditional Chinese instruments with modern orchestration, creating a uniquely immersive experience.

Legacy and Reception

Although it’s a new IP, Black Myth: Wukong is already generating massive buzz. The combination of Eastern myth, challenging gameplay, and technical prowess could establish it as a new classic.

Story

Return to Tamriel in Skyrim Anniversary Edition, the definitive version of the open-world epic. The story remains as compelling as ever: an ancient dragon returns, and you, the Dragonborn, are the world’s last hope. With civil war, political intrigue, and a world teeming with secrets, every playthrough is unique.

Gameplay

Skyrim’s formula of open-world exploration, skill-based progression, and emergent storytelling is refined with new content, improved performance, and mod support. Players can pursue main quests, join guilds, or simply explore the vast, snow-capped wilderness at their own pace.

Why it’s on this list

Skyrim is a cultural touchstone, and the Anniversary Edition keeps it fresh for new hardware. With added content and enhancements, it’s still the gold standard for open-world RPGs and a must-have for any library.

Graphics and Sound

Anniversary Edition features updated visuals, enhanced lighting, and improved textures, making Skyrim more beautiful than ever. The iconic soundtrack and environmental audio remain as stirring and atmospheric as ever.

Legacy and Reception

Skyrim’s influence on the RPG genre is undeniable. The Anniversary Edition has been praised for its robust content and technical improvements, ensuring its place as a perennial favorite.

Story

Sea of Stars is a love letter to classic JRPGs, following two Children of the Solstice as they harness the power of the sun and moon to thwart an evil alchemist. The story is rich with adventure, friendship, and the timeless battle between light and darkness, all told with warmth and charm.

Gameplay

Blending turn-based combat with environmental puzzles and exploration, Sea of Stars emphasizes player strategy and timing. The game features seamless transitions between world exploration and battles, unique character abilities, and a host of side quests and secrets.

Why it’s on this list

Sea of Stars stands out for its retro-inspired visuals and modernized mechanics. It’s a must-play for fans of Chrono Trigger and other genre classics, offering nostalgia with a fresh twist.

Graphics and Sound

The game sports stunning pixel art, dynamic lighting, and fluid animations. The soundtrack, composed in part by Yasunori Mitsuda, is an instant classic, perfectly complementing the game’s evocative visuals.

Legacy and Reception

Sea of Stars has been universally praised for its artistry and heart, earning a devoted following and critical accolades. It’s a modern classic that proves the JRPG formula is as compelling as ever.

Story

Return to the HD-2D world of Solistia in Octopath Traveler II, where eight new protagonists set out on intertwining journeys. Each character’s story explores themes of revenge, redemption, and self-discovery, with narrative paths that cross in unexpected ways.

Gameplay

Octopath Traveler II refines the series’ turn-based “Boost” combat system and adds new Path Actions, allowing players to interact with NPCs and the world in creative ways. Exploration is non-linear, encouraging experimentation and replayability.

Why it’s on this list

The original Octopath Traveler was a surprise hit, and its sequel expands on every aspect. Its unique visual style, layered storytelling, and strategic combat make it a standout among modern JRPGs.

Graphics and Sound

Octopath Traveler II’s HD-2D graphics are a visual feast, blending nostalgic pixel art with modern effects. The sweeping orchestral soundtrack enhances the emotional impact of every scene.

Legacy and Reception

The series has earned a reputation for innovation and quality, and Octopath Traveler II has been lauded for building on its predecessor’s strengths. It’s a must-have for fans of classic and modern RPGs alike.

Story

Phantom Liberty is the critically acclaimed expansion to Cyberpunk 2077, plunging players into a high-stakes tale of espionage and betrayal. V is recruited by a shadowy government agency, navigating the dangerous politics of Dogtown while uncovering secrets that could shake Night City to its core.

Gameplay

The expansion adds new quests, characters, and gameplay systems, including revamped combat and cyberware mechanics. Players explore a gritty new district, make meaningful choices, and tackle challenges that test both combat prowess and moral resolve.

Why it’s on this list

Phantom Liberty marks the redemption arc for Cyberpunk 2077, transforming the game into a true RPG heavyweight. Its gripping narrative, improved mechanics, and wealth of content make it essential for fans of sci-fi storytelling.

Graphics and Sound

Phantom Liberty leverages next-gen hardware for dazzling visuals, ray-traced lighting, and hyper-detailed environments. The soundtrack and voice acting are top-notch, immersing players in the neon-soaked streets of Night City.

Legacy and Reception

Phantom Liberty has been hailed as the expansion that fulfilled Cyberpunk’s original promise, earning praise for its storytelling and technical improvements. It’s now regarded as a must-play RPG experience.

Story

The long-running Ys series returns with Ys X: Nordics, sending red-haired adventurer Adol Christin to the northern seas. The story explores Norse-inspired mythology, as Adol and his companions confront new threats, forge alliances, and unravel ancient mysteries.

Gameplay

Ys X introduces ship-based exploration, fast-paced combat, and co-op mechanics, blending the series’ signature action with fresh ideas. The game encourages experimentation with new skills, tactics, and party combinations.

Why it’s on this list

Ys X: Nordics keeps the venerable franchise feeling fresh. Its blend of action, exploration, and mythological storytelling ensures it will be a highlight for fans of fast-paced RPGs.

Graphics and Sound

The game features vibrant visuals, detailed character models, and sweeping landscapes. The energetic soundtrack, a series hallmark, keeps the adrenaline pumping during battles and exploration.

Legacy and Reception

Ys is one of the longest-running action RPG series, with a loyal fanbase and a reputation for quality. Ys X has been warmly received, proving the franchise’s enduring appeal.

Story

The next chapter in Falcom’s epic saga, Trails Through Daybreak, introduces players to a new cast and region in the continent of Zemuria. The story weaves political intrigue, personal drama, and supernatural mysteries, with richly developed characters and deep lore.

Gameplay

Daybreak refines the series’ turn-based combat system, adding new strategic options and quality-of-life improvements. Exploration is more immersive, with detailed towns, dungeons, and side quests that flesh out the world and its inhabitants.

Why it’s on this list

The Trails series is beloved for its storytelling and world-building, and Daybreak continues that tradition. Its combination of character-driven drama and tactical depth make it a standout for JRPG fans.

Graphics and Sound

Trails Through Daybreak features improved visuals, expressive character portraits, and dynamic environments. The soundtrack is sweeping and emotive, enhancing every narrative twist and battle.

Legacy and Reception

The Legend of Heroes franchise has built a devoted following, praised for its complex plots and interconnected narratives. Daybreak is another strong entry, earning accolades from fans and critics alike.

Conclusion

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for RPG enthusiasts, delivering a buffet of experiences that cater to every taste and playstyle. From the return of legendary franchises to daring new worlds, these 17 games represent the best and brightest of what’s to come on Switch 2, PS5, and PC. Whether you’re itching for classic turn-based adventures, sprawling open worlds, or next-level action, there’s something here to ignite your imagination.

With studios pushing the boundaries of technology and storytelling, RPGs are more immersive and ambitious than ever before. Clear your calendars and get ready to lose yourself in worlds of magic, mystery, and epic quests—2026 is the year the genre levels up like never before.

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